Name: Tracy AragonAge: 49Occupation: Radiology/nuclear medicine manager and owner and operator of The
Strike Zone Cage indoor hitting facilityEducation: Graduated in 1981 from Los Lunas High School, attended New Mexico Start for two years, attended University of Albuquerque for two years, major in radiology; attended the Penroes School Of Nuclear Medicine in Colorado Springs, Colo.Previous political experience: NoneHave you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony? “No.”Have you or your business ever filed for bankruptcy? “No.”Do you currently owe delinquent property taxes in Valencia County? “No.” 1. If elected, what are the top three issues you would like to address while in office?
“1. Law enforcement: We should be able to sustain our own police force; 2. Of course roads, turning lanes, sidewalks, infrastructure, such as waste disposal and city water; 3. I’d like to see a community recreation center of some type with an emphasis on seniors citizens.” 2. What have you done to educate yourself on town issues, such as planning?
“I’ve been in contact with existing councilmen and the town clerk, trying to educate myself on the political aspect of the position. It’s a constant learning curve. It’s something new every day, it’s very challenging and exciting.” 3. What ideas do you have to maintain rural charm while promoting economic development?
“Geographically, Peralta is a very small community, not a lot of room for population growth. It should remain that way. With proper zoning as to not to disrupt existing residents. N.M. 47 can be a gold mine of opportunity for economic growth.” 4. If elected, what will you do, as a councilor, to work with the New Mexico Department of Transportation to make sure the N.M. 47 project moves forward in a timely manner?
“For any project, big or small, team work is a must. Everyone must have one common goal in mind and work toward that goal. Have trust in the people you are working with and let them do their job.” 5. How important is it for the town to have its own waste water system?
“I feel waste water disposal is a must. But I don’t think having our own waste water system is. Not at this time anyway. It’s definitely something I will need to educate myself on.” 6. What qualities and experience make you the best qualified for the position?
“I don’t know if I’m the best qualified for the position or not. I do know that I was born and raised in Peralta, my kids were born and raised here and I plan to grow old here. I would like to think that I could bring a different prospective to the council and some fresh ideas. I feel that I am prepared for the task ahead.”

Municipal Judge

Claudio Moya Jr.

Name: Claudio Moya Jr.Age: 57Occupation: Self-employed, Moya Drilling Co., 37 yearsEducation: High school graduatePrevious political experience: NoneHave you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony? “No.”Have you or your business ever filed for bankruptcy? “No.”Do you currently owe delinquent property taxes in Valencia County? “Yes.” 1. Municipal judges are typically not attorneys. What plans do you have to educate yourself beyond mandatory state training about the town’s ordinances and legal proceedings?
“Whatever is available to me.” 2. Do you believe in alternative sentencing, and if so, what are the benefits to the community?
“Yes, to save taxpayers money. People with hardships do not need anymore.” 3. How can the municipal court foster a better working relationship with law enforcement?
“Communication.”

David A. Young

Name: David A. YoungAge: 56Occupation: Peralta municipal judge; Retired Bernalillo County Sheriff’s captainEducation: University of New Mexico Law School training, Northwestern University Command College Graduate, National American University (1 1/2 years), Central New Mexico Community College (1 year), University of New Mexico (1 year), New Mexico State University (1 year), Los Lunas High School 1973Previous Political Experience: Current town of Peralta municipal judge; candidate for State Representative in 2006.Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony? “No.”Have you or your business ever filed for bankruptcy? “No.”Do you currently owe delinquent property taxes in Valencia County? “No.”

1. Municipal judges are typically not attorneys. What plans do you have to educate yourself beyond mandatory state training about the town’s ordinances and legal proceedings?
“Education and staying abreast of what is transpiring in this state, as well as other municipalities, is a must. Numerous classes are set up by the University of New Mexico Law School, which I attend frequently. I also draw from many resources, including other judges and the UNM Law Library.”

2. Do you believe in alternative sentencing, and if so, what are the benefits to the community?
“I am a firm believer in alternative sentencing, when mandatory state sentencing is not in place. As a municipal judge, I have deferred sentences for teens, who show grade improvements, proof of driving school, GED transcripts, etc. This helps to teach them responsible behavior and develop a stronger community.”

3. How can the municipal court foster a better working relationship with law enforcement?
“As a municipal judge with more than 23 years experience in law enforcement, I understand the pressures the police are under. Clear communication and educating law enforcement on discretion gives them a better perspective of the judicial system. It allows both parties to use their own discretion in their jobs.”

Municipal Elections
Early voting for the municipal elections in Peralta, Bosque Farms, Belen and Los Lunas begins on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, March 6.

(Editor’s Note: Lorenzo A. Moya, a candidate for Peralta Town Council, chose not to respond to the News-Bulletin questionnaire, which was mailed out to all candidates in the four municipal elections. He is running for one of two at-large positions.)